**Defiant Convicted Killer Sentenced in Fresno Courtroom Drama**
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — A defiant convicted killer appeared in Fresno County Superior Court Monday for his sentencing, facing the judge and emotional statements from the victim’s family.
“You’re smiling now, Mr. Valdez,” Judge Houry Sanderson observed during sentencing. “I watched that smile on your face develop as I said those words because you know those are truths.”
Christopher Valdez was convicted of fatally shooting 22-year-old Andrew Valdez in 2019. The two men, who were not related but both had documented gang ties, were at a party in East Central Fresno when the violence erupted. Investigators say multiple shots rang out that night, ending in Andrew’s tragic death.
“The reality that my son Andrew will never return to us again has shattered our hearts forever,” said stepfather Alejandro Lopez during the court proceedings.
Late last year, Christopher Valdez pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter. In exchange, prosecutors dropped the original murder charge—an offense that carried the possibility of a life sentence—and agreed on a 26-year term. Lopez, however, told the court he believed the sentence was not enough.
“As it is written in the Old Testament of the Bible, an eye for an eye,” he said. “My son’s life for your son’s life.” Lopez’s statement visibly affected Christopher, who had remained defiant throughout.
Taking the stand to defend her brother, Alicia Valdez urged Christopher to “never stop being himself” and to “remain strong.” She claimed, “Christopher is still being charged and accused for a crime he didn’t do.” Judge Sanderson responded, clarifying that a witness unequivocally identified Christopher as the shooter.
From the gallery, Alicia Valdez shouted, “She’s a liar!” Judge Sanderson promptly ordered her removal from the courtroom.
Despite the emotionally charged atmosphere, Christopher Valdez appeared unmoved, sitting with his head held high as the proceedings concluded.
“He is gone in physical form, but he is with all of you for many, many years to come,” Judge Sanderson told the victim’s family, referring to Andrew.
Christopher Valdez will soon be transferred to the California Department of Corrections to begin serving his 26-year prison sentence. He has already received credit for nearly a third of that term.
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*Stay tuned for updates on this case and more local news.*
https://abc30.com/post/convicted-fresno-killer-faces-off-judge-victims-family-court/18357320/
